Headquarters for a global trading network of 400 ports

Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city established by the Vikings in 914AD. By medieval times international trade routes were firmly established and the city became cosmopolitan, sophisticated, and prosperous. By the mid-1700’s it had a monopoly on the export of many important commodities including wool, hides, grain, iron, salt, wine, and many luxury goods such as figs, dates, and silk. By 1800 Waterford was booming and had a global trading network of 400 ports as well as the biggest shipbuilding yard in Ireland. This building was originally built in 1785 for the Morris family of Rossduff to the designs of Waterford’s famous Georgian architect John Roberts. It was acquired by the Chamber of Commerce in 1815 and renamed The Port of Waterford Company Building and was to be used as their headquarters. It was renovated to the highest standards of the day and its exquisite cantilevered oval staircase is now recognized to be the finest in the country.

Thanks to Ireland’s Ancient East for this informative video